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I choose to feel good about myself each day. – Louise Hay
Special Thought – I take time to reflect on my amazing life, then write in my journal.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Getting started with journaling can be frustrating for some people, but also can be life changing for others. When doing anything in life, having a personal and well-defined purpose will encourage you to stick to it. Do you want to journal to relieve stress and anxiety? Do you want to deal with a childhood trauma? Do you want to journal to a new you for 2019? Whatever your reason, the results will be the same. Once you begin the journaling process, you’ll become wiser, more enlightened, and all around better version of yourself.
JOURNALING TIPS
Journaling can help with personal growth and development. By regularly recording your thoughts you will gain insight into your behaviors and moods.
Here’s some great journaling tips:
• Use a pen and paper
• Journal in the morning
• Write every day
• Don’t edit your thoughts or feelings
• Don’t correct your grammar
• Schedule quality time for journaling
• Write about the current space you’re in and always be honest
• Use journaling prompts
• Talk to your inner child and write letters
• Cultivate an attitude of gratitude
• Keep it private
JOURNALING BENEFITS
Journaling allows you to track patterns, trends, improvement and growth over time. In addition, journaling has been proven to improve not only mental and physical health, but it has increased self-esteem in some people as well.
Here’s some other journaling benefits:
• Clarify your thoughts and feelings
• Know yourself better
• Reduce stress
• Solve problems more effectively
• Resolve disagreements with others
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MEDITATION TIPS
In addition, to starting your journaling process, it is important for you to participate in meditation practices as well. There is no doubt that meditation is good for you and will help you feel calmer throughout life.
Here’s some great meditation tips to help you start this process:
• Start small with 3 – 5 minutes (or less); Pay attention to the sensations of taking breaths
• Understand what meditation can do for you as it relates to stress, anxiety or overthinking
• Understand the principles of meditation; Becoming aware of when your mind has drifted and being able to redirect your attention back to your point of focus
• Do meditation your own way, make it personal
• Reduce all or nothing thinking
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Everything you’ve ever wanted, is one step outside your comfort zone. – Unknown Author
MIND
• What thought patterns do I have and how do they impact my life?
• What takes your mind away from positive thoughts? Peaceful thoughts?
• What is one thing I can do this week to improve my meditation time?
BODY
• What is happening in my body right now?
• How can I honor my body on today?
• Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?
SPIRIT
• What am I grateful for and why?
• What do I need to be free from and surrender to God?
• How much you are trusting God with your life right now?
As we look ahead to 2019, we’ve got gratitude on our minds. Continue to focus on your healthy living and fitness journey. I wish you a new year filled with joy, peace, hope, love, family, friends and laughter! Don’t procrastinate any longer. Get a journal and start journaling to a new you.
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).
You don’t need a new day to start over, you only need a new mindset. – Hazel Hira Ozbek
Special Thought – Life is only as good as your mindset.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I cannot believe it is two days before Christmas and 9 days before the new year. Time really flies when you’re having fun, right? I want to spend some time discussing a very important concept called – Shifting Your Mindset. Honestly, I feel it is necessary to not only shift your mindset, but also you should evaluate your life from time to time. It is important to use positive activities, such as practicing self-reflection, creating healthy habits, or maybe even preparing a vision board for the upcoming year.
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SELF-REFLECTION
Women need real moments of solitude and self-reflection to balance out how much of ourselves we give away. – Barbara DeAngeles
Self-reflection can be defined as meditation or serious thought about one’s character, actions and motives. Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things, then better yourself throughout the process.
• Self-reflection allows you to notice negative patterns in your life. Consider alternate approaches to your situation(s) and begin to move away from the stressors altogether.
• Self-reflection keeps you focused on the bigger picture. Identify a clear vision of where you want to see yourself in the future. Write it down and remind yourself of what you hope to accomplish.
• Self-reflection prevents you from worrying about things out of your control. Instead, direct your energy toward things you can absolutely improve within your life.
• Self-reflection helps you face your fears. Recognize and admit your fears to yourself and eventually learn how to handle them.
• Self-reflection allows you to clearly define happiness on your own terms. When are you most happy? Who do you most enjoy spending time with? What accomplishments are you most proud of and why? By recognizing the positive life events, you can apply your knowledge to future goals and endeavors.
Keep in mind, self-reflection is an incredible gift so please embrace it every day. Meditation can make our journey through life more peaceful if you allow it to. In the mirror we find a reflection of our appearance, but in the heart, we find a reflection of our soul.
Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted – it is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong
CREATING HEALTHY HABITS
Create healthy habits, not restrictions. – Unknown Author
Well, it is that time of the year when a lot of people set new goals or resolutions to create healthy habits for the new year. People set out with the best intentions but often times fail to keep the momentum throughout the year for various reasons.
Please keep these important tips in mind when creating healthy habits:
• Start with a realistic, small and attainable goal.
• Work it into your schedule and write it down like any other appointment.
• Track your progress in a journal or online.
• Figure out strategies to overcome what might hold you back.
• Enlist a friend to work on the goal with you.
• Reward yourself for small victories.
• Forgive yourself if you slip up and keep trying. Giving up is not an option.
• Use triggers to your advantage. For example, meditate before bed time every night or lay out your workout clothes every morning before you leave for work.
Remember, when you start to create healthy habits your enthusiasm is high, and you’re motivated to see positive changes within your life. Be patient and allow yourself to make mistakes along the way. Our greatest capacity to have influence over our health is with creating healthy habits.
It takes 21 days to make or break a habit. – Unknown Author
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VISION BOARD
Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe. – Oprah Winfrey
Have you ever created a vision board for yourself or your family? If not, what better time to think about creating one. A vision board is a visualization tool which refers to a board of any sort used to build a collage of words and pictures that represent your goals/dreams. By placing visual representations of your goals into one space, you can easily visualize them frequently.
Follow these important tips to create an awesome and inspiring vision board:
• Create a list of goals you’d like to achieve in the next year. In order to visualize your goals, first you need to know what they are. What do you want your ideal life to look like?
• Collect a bundle of old magazines with beautiful pictures. Our local library sells older magazines for $0.25 or ask your family/friends.
• Find pictures that represent your goals and inspire you. Focus on how the images make you feel.
• Make a collage out of your photos. Once you have collected enough photos, it’s time to make your vision board.
• Add motivational “affirmation words” that represent how you want to feel. For example, I want to feel joyful, powerful, fearless, loved, strong, healthy, loving and financially free.
• Take a few moments to contemplate your vision board every day. Place your vision board somewhere you can see it every day. Then, make time to look at it once or twice a day.
Don’t forget to write down when you created your vision board. It’s a good idea to create a new vision board each year. As you continue to grow, evolve and expand, your dreams/goals will too. Now, let’s reflect on the concept shifting your mindset for a moment. Hold your vision board in your hands and really internalize the future it represents. Read your daily affirmations and inspirational words aloud. Feel yourself in the future you have designed. Believe it is already yours. Be grateful for the good that is already present in your life. Acknowledge any goals you have already achieved and acknowledge the presence of God in your life.
If you don’t have a vision, you’re going to be stuck in what you know, and the only thing you know is what you’ve already seen. – Iyanla Vanzant
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Your deepest struggle can, if you’re willing and open, produce your greatest strength. – Oprah Winfrey
• On a scale 1 – 10 my mental health is a ___________ because ___________________.
• What is happening in your mind right now? in your body? in your spirit?
• What does my vision for tomorrow look like? for 2019?
• What are the best choices I have made in life so far?
• What is one of life’s little pleasures that I appreciate?
• What challenged you today?
• What is something I need to be free from and surrender to God?
• Write about an area of your life you need more support in right now.
• Write about a goal or area of your life you need to be more committed to.
• List some new healthy habits you’d like to adapt in the new year.
As we look ahead to 2019, we’ve got gratitude on our minds. Continue to focus on your healthy living and fitness journey. I wish you a new year filled with joy, peace, hope, love, family, friends and laughter!
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
Make your vision so clear that your fears become irrelevant. – Unknown Author
Becoming more self-aware provides an understanding of what we truly want in life. Now, it may not be easy, but as you can see, it is necessary, so you can make changes that will impact your life in a significant way. How do you plan to shift your mindset for the new year?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).
Missing you comes in waves, tonight I’m drowning. – Unknown Author
Special Thought – Happiness is my choice. Decide every morning that you are in a good mood.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am truly lost and broken on today. It has been 3 years since my beautiful mother left her earthly body to be in heaven. I find myself repeating this quote from time to time:
A million words would not bring her back, I know because I’ve tried. Neither would a million tears, I know because I cried. – Unknown Author
I realize deep in my heart that she is in a better place where she will no longer be in pain while struggling to breathe due to her failing lungs. My mother suffered from severe COPD for about 5 years or so. I watched her change from an independent, vibrant, and feisty woman to one who struggled to care for herself on a daily basis. Watching her go through this terrible transition honestly broke me down to my core. It hurt me so much because I could not do anything to help her overcome this obstacle, this awful illness, that she had to endure. This whole experience left me totally lost and broken even until this day.
If I had to find a happy place throughout this experience, I would have to say that my mother and I grew closer to one another. We had a special bond that could never be broken. Even that last night together, I was able to bathe her and pray for her. That was a special moment that will forever be in my heart. She smiled as I left her room that night. I smiled back as I said, “I love you mom.” Not knowing that was the last time I would see her alive. My positive memories will never replace her presence in my life, seeing her warm smile or hearing her laughter. Honestly, I feel her spirit every day and she visit me in dreams often. Sometimes the dreams seem so real.
Losing our loved ones is hard and painful but losing them during the holidays is even harder. Believe it or not, writing my feelings out in a journal helps me sort out my thoughts. I’m able to release the hurt, loneliness, pain, anger, and heartache all in one place without judgment. With time, I know I will learn to live and express myself differently, but for now writing is my first choice throughout this lost and broken journey.
My mouth says, “I’m okay.” My fingers text, “I’m fine.” My heart says, I’m broken.” – Unknown Author
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AFFIRMATIONS – (aimhappy.com)
• Trust the process/journey.
• Peace and comfort are my main priority.
• I am open to this moment.
• I am connected to what really matters in my life.
• I am a living, breathing example of the kind of world I want to live in.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
• Why do I feel lost and broken on today?
• What do I know to be true in this moment?
• What do I want more of in my life?
• What am I ready to let go of?
• What was my high and low today?
• What questions am I facing right now?
• When was the last time I felt truly at peace?
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
Have you ever felt lost and broken throughout life? Have you ever lost a loved one during the holidays? If so, how did you cope with your grief and pain? Please share your life experiences in the comment section.
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost).
I believe in the person I want to become.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! This is the time of the year when everyone is trying to make New Year’s Resolutions. Instead of doing what seems to fail year after year, let’s plan to get healthy and fit by Journaling for Fitness. Keeping a fitness journal can be very helpful to most people. Studies show this easy tool helps reduce stress, builds positive thoughts and feelings, and helps us better understand what may be holding each of us back.
Never let a stumble in the road be the end of the journey.
BENEFITS OF JOURNALING
• Reduce stress – Expressive writing has been shown to lower stress levels.
• Improve your memory – Regular journal writing can improve your short-term memory.
• Stay organized – Keeping a journal such as a weight loss diary or fitness journal lets you maintain an organized record of your progress and journey.
JOURNALING TIPS
• Keep a regular writing schedule with few distractions so journaling becomes a habit.
• Don’t over think your written entries, just write honestly.
• Be creative. Add photos and positive quotes to enhance your written entries.
• Keep your journal private so you will not begin to write for others instead of yourself.
• Do not try to write perfect words, but instead just write what you think and feel.
• Reread your journal entry throughout your journey to see if you spot any patterns you want to change.
REASONS TO KEEP A FITNESS JOURNAL
Fitness means so much more than having a nice body. It means having a much better life.
Keeping a fitness journal can help you plan ahead to achieve your health and fitness goals, look back to see what’s working and what’s not, and gives you a clear idea of what you’re going to do for the day.
Here’s some additional reasons to keep a fitness journal:
• To clarify and focus your fitness goals.
• To break down goals into smaller, more manageable goals.
• To track progress towards goals.
• To plan future workouts.
• To record workouts done and progress.
• To plan exercise rest days.
• To gain a better understanding of exercise habits.
• To provide a factual record of successes.
As you can see, journaling is my safe place, my time to just write how I feel and scream on paper and no one will ever know. Let’s take a moment to define journal. A journal is a personal reflection of who you are, it’s a repository for all the things that interest and inspire you. A journal provides a safe environment to experiment with your writing style and technique. Simply put, when you write in a journal it becomes your personal journey of creative and heart felt thoughts. So, with that said, let’s start 2019 healthier and more organized. Plan to focus on your health and fitness goals by including a fitness journal in your daily routine. After all, your health and well-being must take priority, so you will be able to provide the necessary support to your family and friends.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
When you feel like giving up, think about why you started.
• Today, I can honor my body by ___________________________.
• I am taking ___________________ actions to reach _____________________ goal.
• What are my fitness goals for the new year?
• What am I feeling today and what thoughts are creating that feeling?
• How can I love myself on today?
• What can I do to take better care of myself?
• What is one thing I know I really need to change?
• What is my vision for the next 3 months?
• List 5 to 7 new habits you’d like to adapt in the new year.
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
You’ve always been beautiful. Now you’re just deciding to be healthier, fitter, faster and stronger. Remember that as you continue your healthier journey. Do you prefer setting goals or New Year’s Resolutions? What kinds of goals are you setting for yourself? What would be your New Year’s Resolution(s)? Do you plan to include a fitness journal in your daily routine? Why or why not?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means we
may receive a commission if you purchase through our link (at no additional
cost).
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The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate. – Oprah Winfrey
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! This morning I pause to bless my day and it is a beautiful gift from God. Today, Iam celebrating my 45th birthday and I wanted to celebrate life withyou. Now, what better way to celebrate than to write an inspirational blog postjust for you. We should always make each new day a celebration of life. Why youask? Well, it is quite simple. Every day is a fresh start. Always remember,what you celebrate expands to something bigger so celebrate life often. Throw kindness around like confetti.
Today, right in this present moment, I want to take time to reflect on my amazing life. I honestly look at where I am today, and I look at how I came to be here. I acknowledge the darkness and the light that shines within. Each day I focus on my vision of positive changes that I need to make in my life so that I may heal and grow in the most beautiful way possible. However, I do realize this journey has no rules, no right or wrong answers. I accept my journey for what it is, and I acknowledge that only I can do my healing work. I choose to feel good about myself each day. I am blessed. I am beautiful. I am brave. I am fearless. I am happy. I am bold. I am strong. I am enough. I aspire to be a giver. A giver of live, agiver of good vibes and a giver of strength. Today I fill my heart with love and embrace this wonderful, new life experience.
WAYS TO CELEBRATE LIFE
Life is what you celebrate. All of it. Even its end. – Joanne Harris
Every
day do something that will lead you closer to God. (Read God’s Word, Pray, Meditate)
Thrive on happiness, a calm mind, good health and well-being. (Reading, Journaling, Exercising)
Have faith, be courageous, and dream big. (Believe, Trust and Hope)
Feed your soul spiritual food. (Read God’s Word, Attend Church, Listen to Gospel Music)
Strive for greatness and embrace change along the way. (Victorious)
Don’t procrastinate. Think positive and plan ahead. (Focus and Vision)
Love to no end, be grateful, choose joy and be kind. (Heart and Mind)
Be strong enough to let go and wise enough to wait for what you deserve. (Strength and Wisdom)
Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like and celebrating it for everything that it is. – Mandy Hale
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POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND AFFIRMATIONS
Your mind is a garden. Your thoughts are the seeds. You can grow flowers, or you can grow weeds.
One small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.
There is no one better to be than myself. I am whole, and I accept who I am.
I believe in my goals and dreams. I have the power to make them come alive.
I forgive myself for my mistakes. My mistakes help me learn and grow.
My confidence grows when I step outside my comfort zone.
I am in charge of my life.
I am open and ready to learn.
I am capable of so much.
I am free to make my own choices.
I am perfect just the way I am.
Life isn’t meant to be lived perfectly…but merely to be lived. Boldly, wildly, beautifully, uncertainly, imperfectly, magically lived.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams. –
Oprah Winfrey
What is my happiest childhood memory?
How can I love myself today?
What is one of life’s little pleasures that I appreciate?
Who/What brings the most joy to my life?
When was the last time I felt truly at peace?
What do I need more of in my life?
What is something I would love to learn in my lifetime?
What are the best choices I have made in life so far?
What did I do today that brought me closer to my dream?
What is your vision for the next 3 months?
One lesson I learned today is ____________________.
When I am alone, I love to _______________________.
Today, I can honor my body by ___________________.
One thing I need to work on is ____________________.
One thing I need to let go is ______________________.
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
You become what you believe. – Oprah Winfrey
Have courage to push harder than yesterday if you want a different tomorrow. Stay positive and be the best version of you. How do you plan to celebrate life? How do you feel about your life’s journey?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target Affiliate Program and Blue Host Affiliate Program which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com and Bluehost.com
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you purchase through our link (at no additional cost).
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When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed. – Maya Angelou
Something
to Think About – Jesus knows the way because He is the way.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Season’s Greetings! Always remember, the greatest gift you can ever own is not found in the shops or under your Christmas tree. It is found in the hearts of your loving family and your true friends. This should be a special time of the year filled with happiness and peace. Finding time to share joy and positive memories with family and friends. Don’t forget about those who are less fortunate than us. Sacrifice your time by serving people in need at your local homeless shelter, foster care agencies, nursing homes or hospitals. Visit some of your neighbors and make sure that your elderly neighbors have healthy meals for the holidays as well. Also, don’t forget to send monetary donations to your favorite charities. Jesus isn’t just the reason for this season. He’s the reason for every single day of our life. Wishing all my family and friends a beautiful and blessed Holiday Season!
Today be thankful and think how rich you are. Your family is priceless, your time is gold, and your health is wealth. –Zig Ziglar
REASONS WHY JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE
SEASON
The beauty of Christmas is not in the
presents but in His presence.
We should celebrate Jesus Christ because He is
the ultimate gift to the world (Romans 5:15)
His love inspires people to be extra kind and
giving this time of year that’s why you give special gifts to those you love
and cherish (I John 3:16)
It’s a time of year where we can all be like
little children, just like He taught (Matthew 18:2-5)
Christmas lights remind us that He is the Light
of the world (John 8:12)
We can be of good cheer and full of hope because
He came to save us (John 3:16)
Everybody loves when a baby is born, but none
has changed the world as Jesus has (Matthew 1:21)
TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Season’s Greetings. Happy Holidays. Be Kind.
Be Thoughtful. Be Genuine. But most of all Be Thankful.
How do you plan to celebrate the birth of Jesus
Christ during this Christmas holiday?
What action did you take today that brought you
joy? What action did you take to bring joy to others?
How do you spread Christmas cheer?
How do you plan to serve others during the
Christmas holiday and beyond?
When have you felt that you deserved something
you wanted and couldn’t get it?
How could you remind yourself instead about all
the blessings you already have?
What are you looking forward to this holiday
season?
Who made you smile during the holiday season?
The holiday season makes me feel ____________________________.
Write about 4 emotions that come to your heart
on Christmas day and why?
List 10 words that come to mind when you thinkof Jesus Christ. Ready, set, go!
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
Merry Christmas. Tis the Season to be Jolly.
How do you
plan to spend the holiday season? How do you plan to share some joy and holiday
cheer to those around you? Do you have any family traditions or recipes that
you share every year?
Believe in yourself
today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target Affiliate Program and Blue Host Affiliate Program which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com and Bluehost.com
Joy is the sound of love, the color of gratitude, and the song of hope. – Mary Davis
Something to Think About – The root of joy is gratefulness.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today I choose joy. Joy is the echo of God’s life in us.
HOW TO CHOOSE JOY (www.flowingwithchange.com)
• Decide to choose joy.
• Daily affirm, “I feel joy today.”
• When other things seem to be more important like worrying, start over with the first one.
If we allow ourselves to be honest and feel the positive sensations inside, then we all could agree that life is simply bursting with joy. Joy grows from the inside, then you are allowed to spread it to others along your journey. Learning to live in the present moment is part of the path you take towards joy. No one makes you joyous, it comes from within. Simply put, it is your responsibility to choose joy throughout life. Now, you may be wondering how you choose joy from day to day? Well, you can choose joy by showing kindness, love and a grateful heart. In addition, there are some basic ways that you can spread joy to other people as well. It can be quite a rewarding experience to brighten up someone’s day by extending an act of kindness or just simply smiling at someone as you pass by. However, it is essential for you to bring joy to yourself first by empowering yourself and leading a happy and stress free life.
WAYS TO SPREAD JOY
• Be kind toward yourself. Remember, you cannot give what you don’t have.
• Smile. Don’t wait to be happy. Think of something good in your life, smile and see what happens.
• Transform your life by being optimistic and positive. Be helpful and give compliments to others.
• Surprise the people you love with a special gift or flowers just because.
• Say something good about someone or something. Be genuine and spread positive vibes and thoughts.
• Send a card, special note or letter to family, friends, co-workers or neighbors.
• Being authentic and courteous to others by saying words, such as “good morning” or “have a wonderful day”.
• Volunteer for a good cause where you can help others less fortunate than you are. For example, visit a nursing home, hospital, children’s group home or a homeless shelter.
You are free to think thoughts of worry or joy, and whatever you choose will attract the same kind back to you. Worry attracts worry. Joy attracts joy. – Rhonda Byrne
5 WAYS TO FIGHT FOR JOY – (www.moreradiance.com)
• Sing your favorite song
• Focus on the Good
• Smile throughout your day
• Surround yourself with joyful people
• Talk about joyful things
While living your best life, it is important to find joy along the journey. Don’t wait for perfect circumstances to experience the joy God wants to give in this moment. Remember, life doesn’t have to be perfect to be filled with joy. Begin to live life on your own terms or you will have other people sucking the joy out of you before you can spread it to anyone else. Find joy by walking in gratitude. Joy is contagious. Pass it on!
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JOYFUL AFFIRMATIONS
Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, and sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. – Thich Nhat Hahn
• Today I choose and welcome joy into my life.
• My day begins with gratitude and joy.
• I radiate joy and vitality throughout my life.
• I am worthy of love and joy.
• I am a joyful breeze entering a room.
• I am peaceful. I am joyful. I am thankful.
• I handle my own life with joy and ease.
• Life is filled with joy and abundance.
• Nourishing myself is a joyful experience.
• Today I spread love, joy and happiness.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. – Karl Barth
• What’s the role of gratitude in your life?
• What is one thing you’d like to improve in yourself?
• How frequently do you make time for self-care?
• What is your life motto?
• What needs to happen in your life to increase joy?
• When was the last time someone was wowed by something you did?
• What are some ways to give back during this holiday season and beyond?
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls. – Mother Teresa
Sprinkle joy throughout your day. Shared joy is double joy which is incredible joy. Be joyful always. Is it difficult for you to spread joy to others? What kinds of challenges do you face concerning spreading joy?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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Something to Think About – Hello, December. Make my wishes come true.
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s welcome December with a positive attitude and a joyful holiday spirit. While most people are planning holiday parties and doing their holiday shopping, I’d rather focus on end of the year personal goals. Whether it’s fitness or career related goals, people fail to achieve their personal goals not because they don’t have the will, but because they don’t know how. Remember, goals help us believe in ourselves. Setting goals for yourself is a way to fuel your ambition and your inner drive.
GOAL SETTING 101
Set some goals, then demolish them. – Unknown Author
Well, how do you start? First, you should set some personal goals for yourself. However, not just any kind of goals, make sure you set S.M.A.R.T. goals as well as H.E.A.R.T. goals.
S – Specific – Well defined so that anyone can understand the goal
M – Measurable – Needs to have parameters in order to know if the goal was achieved
A – Attainable – Must be a realistic goal that challenges you
R – Relevant – Make sure the goal is consistent with your other goals and will aid you in achieving your long-term goal
T – Time Oriented – Create a time frame for when you want to accomplish your goal
Here’s an example of my S.M.A.R.T. goal:
Simple Goal – I want to improve my health. Smart Goal – I will improve my health by eating 100 grams of protein, drinking 64oz of water and exercising every day.
Next, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Break down your goals into small and manageable steps to overcome any anxiety you may have. Hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout the process. Rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis. Simply put, your success is found in your daily routine.
S.M.A.R.T goals are good, but H.E.A.R.T. goals will help balance your life. Make sure your goals don’t make your to-do list unachievable, then you will be off track.
H – Help yourself. You have to take care of you. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
E – Everyone else. People matter so share love with others around you. Be kind to strangers.
A – Attitude and academics. Have a positive attitude. Never stop learning.
R – Resources. Steward time, money and energy well.
T – Trade and Business. Find your passion. Enjoy a fun hobby. Then, start a business.
Here’s an example of my H.E.A.R.T. goals:
• Read God’s Word, pray and meditate daily. • Exercise for at least 60 minutes per day. • Daily Steps at least 12,000 steps per day. • Sleep for at least 7 hours per day. • Research, write and publish at least 5 articles per week. • Research, write and publish at least 3 inspirational blogs per week. • Read an inspirational book or positive affirmations daily. • Write in my mood journal daily.
However, goal setting isn’t just about creating a plan for your life and holding yourself accountable, it’s also about giving us the inspiration necessary to aim for things we never thought possible. As you’re reevaluating your personal goals, keep in mind that a new year offers a clean slate to refocus, redefine and recreate your life.
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NEW YEAR MOTIVATION QUOTES
Ask yourself if what you’re doing today is getting you closer to where you want to be tomorrow. – Unknown Author
This is a good time of the year to get motivated. Here’s some motivation quotes to help you get started:
• Life is tough but so are you.
• Stop wishing, start doing.
• You are your only limit.
• Set a goal and do something about it every day.
• Push yourself because no one else is going to do it for you.
• Take the risk or lose the chance.
• Great things never came from comfort zones.
• Hope is the only thing stronger than fear.
• Slow down and enjoy yourself a little more, don’t be so serious, life is not a race.
• Don’t make me walk when I want to fly.
• Whoever is trying to bring you down, is already below you.
TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Be a reflection of what you’d like to see in others. – Unknown Author
• What does the Christmas Holiday mean to you?
• What are you looking forward to this holiday season?
• What song gets you into the Christmas spirit?
• What is your favorite Christmas movie? Why?
• How do you spread Christmas cheer?
• What Christmas tradition do you love to share with your family and friends?
• What is your “perfect” Christmas memory?
• What does “Home for the Holidays” look like to you?
• What Christmas moment from this year do you love?
• How do you feel about approaching a new year?
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SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
Hello, December. You’re the last month so be the best one. What personal goals are you planning to accomplish in December? What new personal goals are you planning to set for January? What keeps you motivated? What do you plan to do to prepare for the Christmas Holiday? for the new year?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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Grief never ends…But it changes. It’s a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith…It is the price of love. – Author Unknown
Something to Think About – Whenever grief tries to steal the beauty of your memories just remember love never dies.
In Loving Memory of Rosalynn K. Russell November 29, 1942 – December 19, 2015
Rosalynn K. Russell
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today’s blog post is dedicated to my late mother, Rosalynn K. Russell. Happy Birthday, Mom! Today, would’ve been her 76th birthday! I miss her presence, her smile, her touch, her laughter. I miss everything about her. She was a small woman in stature but had a big heart and was willing to help anyone in need. November and December are the most difficult months for me while I continue to cope with grief and the loss of my beautiful and loving mother.
The loneliest walk you’ll ever take is the one down the road of grief. – Author Unknown
Unfortunately, the holidays can be a time of sadness, pain, anger or dread for anyone dealing with an illness, grief or the loss of a loved one. Unfortunately, grief can also magnify the stress that is often already a part of the holidays.
Here’s some effective ways to cope with grief during the holidays:
• Offer yourself some grace – Give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. If you feel sad, allow the tears to come; if you feel angry, allow yourself to vent some steam.
• Be kind to yourself – Be sure to get plenty of rest and nourishment you need; do not take on more than you can handle; if you need to be alone, then honor that. If you desire the affection of others, seek it out.
• Ask for and accept help – It’s okay to tell your loved ones the best way that they can help you during this difficult time.
• Find support – Sharing your feelings is often the best way to get through them and finding people you can talk to will help. Family and friends can be a great support during times of grief. If they are unavailable, seek help from a grief support group in your area.
• Make a difference – Give to your favorite charity organization or purchase a gift for a needy child. Consider volunteering at a nursing home, hospital, hospice, children’s shelter or soup kitchen. This can help you cope with your grief by contributing to the greater good within your community.
During the holidays, it’s alright to have a good time in spite of your grief. Just allow yourself to feel whatever your heart is feeling in the moment. The best gift you can give anyone you love is that of being true to yourself and living your life to the fullest, even as you adjust to the loss of a loved one.
Healing unfolds in its own time; it doesn’t look to the clock or calendar for direction. – Jen, aimhappy.com
TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
I am no longer who I was. Loss has reshaped me. – Benjamin Allen
Journaling is a powerful tool for coping with grief and loss.
• Why are you grieving?
• What is your fondest memory?
• When alone, what do you do?
• What season holds the most memories?
• The hardest time of day is ___________________.
• My support system includes __________________.
• I really need more of _____________________.
• I am really having a hard time coping with _____________________.
• I find it most difficult when ______________________.
• Some of my grief triggers are ________________________.
SHARE YOUR COMMENTS
How do you cope with grief? Do you allow yourself to feel during this most difficult time?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target Affiliate Program, Blue Host Affiliate Program and the WordPress.com Affiliate Program which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com
